White Bean Hummus Recipe

White bean hummus has become a staple in our home, and honestly, I never thought I’d say that about a bean dip! Initially, I was a bit skeptical – could white beans really replicate the creamy, nutty deliciousness of traditional chickpea hummus? But one afternoon, with a pantry full of cannellini beans and a craving for something healthy and flavorful, I decided to give it a try. The result? Absolutely phenomenal. My family, even my notoriously picky kids, devoured it with pita bread, carrot sticks, and even spread on sandwiches. It’s lighter and slightly sweeter than regular hummus, yet still incredibly satisfying and versatile. This white bean hummus recipe is now a regular in our snack rotation, potlucks, and even as a quick and healthy meal component. It’s incredibly easy to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and tastes absolutely divine. If you’re looking for a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly addictive dip or spread, look no further – this white bean hummus is a game-changer.

Ingredients

To create this creamy and flavorful white bean hummus, you’ll need just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect taste and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cans (15 ounces each) cannellini beans, also known as white kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Cannellini beans are the star of the show, providing a mild, slightly nutty flavor and a creamy texture that blends beautifully into hummus. Draining and rinsing them thoroughly is essential to remove excess sodium and the starchy liquid, which can affect the final texture.
• 1/4 cup tahini: Tahini, a paste made from sesame seeds, is a fundamental ingredient in hummus. It adds a rich, nutty, and slightly bitter depth of flavor that is characteristic of authentic hummus. It also contributes to the creamy texture and helps emulsify the ingredients. Look for tahini that is smooth and pourable, not overly thick and dry.
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice: Lemon juice is crucial for brightening the flavor of the hummus and adding a refreshing tang. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always preferred over bottled, as it has a brighter, more vibrant flavor. Adjust the amount to your preference – some prefer a tangier hummus, while others like it milder.
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic provides a pungent, aromatic flavor that complements the beans and tahini beautifully. The amount of garlic can be adjusted to your taste. Start with 2 cloves and add another if you prefer a stronger garlic flavor. Mincing the garlic finely ensures it blends evenly into the hummus and releases its flavor effectively. For a milder garlic flavor, you can roast the garlic cloves before adding them to the recipe.
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling: Olive oil contributes to the creamy texture of the hummus and adds a rich, fruity flavor. Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its superior flavor and health benefits. Use good quality olive oil for the best taste. A portion of the olive oil is blended into the hummus, and more is used for drizzling on top as a garnish, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
• 1/4 cup cold water, plus more as needed: Cold water is used to achieve the perfect creamy consistency. Adding water gradually helps to thin out the hummus and make it smooth and dippable. Start with 1/4 cup and add more, tablespoon by tablespoon, until you reach your desired consistency. The amount of water needed can vary depending on the consistency of your tahini and beans.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste: Salt is essential for enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients and bringing them together. Start with 1/2 teaspoon and adjust to your liking. Taste the hummus after blending and add more salt if needed.
• Optional garnishes: These are entirely optional but highly recommended to elevate the presentation and flavor of your white bean hummus. Consider:
  • Extra virgin olive oil: A generous drizzle of olive oil on top adds richness and visual appeal.
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped: Fresh herbs add a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note.
  • Paprika or smoked paprika: A sprinkle of paprika, especially smoked paprika, adds a subtle smoky flavor and a beautiful reddish hue.
  • Pine nuts or toasted sesame seeds: These add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
  • Sumac: Sumac is a Middle Eastern spice with a tangy, lemony flavor that complements hummus perfectly.

Instructions

Making white bean hummus is incredibly simple and quick. With just a few steps and a food processor or blender, you’ll have a delicious and healthy dip ready in minutes. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare the Cannellini Beans: Begin by ensuring your cannellini beans are properly prepared. Open the cans of cannellini beans and pour them into a fine-mesh sieve or colander. Rinse them thoroughly under cold running water for at least a minute. This step is crucial for removing the excess sodium and the starchy liquid from the canning process. Rinsing well will result in a smoother and more flavorful hummus. After rinsing, allow the beans to drain completely in the sieve while you prepare the other ingredients. Excess water can make the hummus too thin, so draining is important.
2. Combine Ingredients in a Food Processor or Blender: The key to achieving a smooth and creamy hummus is using a high-powered food processor or blender. Add the drained and rinsed cannellini beans to the bowl of your food processor or blender. Next, add the tahini, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic cloves, and salt. It’s best to add the ingredients in this order to ensure they are evenly distributed and blended.
3. Start Blending and Add Olive Oil: Close the lid of your food processor or blender securely. Start blending the ingredients on low speed initially, then gradually increase to high speed. Blend for about 30 seconds to a minute, or until the mixture starts to become a thick paste. While the food processor or blender is running, slowly drizzle in the ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil through the feed tube or opening. Adding the olive oil gradually while blending helps to emulsify the ingredients and creates a smoother, creamier texture. Continue blending until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Add Cold Water for Desired Consistency: At this stage, the hummus will likely be quite thick. To achieve the perfect creamy, dippable consistency, you’ll need to add cold water. With the food processor or blender still running, slowly add the ¼ cup of cold water, one tablespoon at a time. Process for another 30 seconds after each tablespoon of water is added. Continue to add more cold water, one tablespoon at a time, if needed, until you reach your desired consistency. You may need slightly more or less than ¼ cup of water depending on your preference and the consistency of your beans and tahini. The hummus should be smooth, creamy, and easily scoopable.
5. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Once the hummus has reached your desired consistency, stop the food processor or blender and taste it. This is a crucial step to ensure the flavors are balanced and to your liking. Taste for salt, lemon juice, and garlic. If you feel it needs more salt, add a pinch and blend again briefly. If you prefer a tangier hummus, add a squeeze more lemon juice. If you want a more pronounced garlic flavor, you can add another minced garlic clove (or a pinch of garlic powder if you prefer). Blend again after each adjustment to incorporate the added seasoning.
6. Serve and Garnish: Once you’re satisfied with the taste and consistency of your white bean hummus, it’s ready to serve! Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Using the back of a spoon, create a swirl or well in the center of the hummus. Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful sheen to the hummus. Now, add your choice of garnishes. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a fresh, herbaceous touch and a pop of color. A dusting of paprika or smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor and visual appeal. For added texture and nutty flavor, sprinkle with pine nuts or toasted sesame seeds. A pinch of sumac will add a tangy, lemony note. Get creative with your garnishes to personalize your hummus.
7. Chill (Optional): While white bean hummus is delicious served immediately at room temperature, chilling it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes can enhance the flavors and improve the texture, making it even creamier. Cover the serving bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the hummus to an airtight container before refrigerating. Chilling is particularly recommended if you are making the hummus ahead of time.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your white bean hummus with your favorite dippers such as pita bread, pita chips, fresh vegetables (carrots, celery, cucumbers, bell peppers), crackers, or breadsticks. It’s also fantastic as a spread for sandwiches, wraps, or toast. Store any leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors may even develop further overnight.

Nutrition Facts

This white bean hummus is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy and guilt-free snack or meal component. Here are the approximate nutrition facts per serving:

Servings: Approximately 10 servings (based on 2 tablespoons per serving)

Calories per serving: Approximately 120-150 calories (This can vary slightly depending on the specific brands and measurements of ingredients used, particularly the amount of olive oil and tahini).

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per serving:

• Protein: 4-5 grams: White beans are a good source of plant-based protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
• Fat: 8-10 grams: The fat primarily comes from olive oil and tahini, which are sources of healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These healthy fats are beneficial for heart health and brain function.
• Saturated Fat: 1-1.5 grams: Saturated fat content is relatively low.
• Cholesterol: 0 mg: Hummus is cholesterol-free.
• Sodium: 100-150 mg (without added salt, can vary based on canned bean sodium content and added salt): Sodium content can vary depending on whether you use low-sodium beans and how much salt you add. Rinsing the beans helps reduce sodium.
• Carbohydrates: 10-12 grams: Carbohydrates come from the white beans and provide energy.
• Fiber: 3-4 grams: White beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which is crucial for digestive health, regulating blood sugar levels, and promoting satiety.
• Sugar: 1-2 grams (naturally occurring in beans): Sugar content is naturally occurring and low.

Vitamins and Minerals:

White bean hummus is also a good source of various vitamins and minerals, including:

• Folate: Essential for cell growth and development.
• Iron: Important for oxygen transport and energy production.
• Magnesium: Plays a role in muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and blood pressure regulation.
• Potassium: Important for maintaining healthy blood pressure and fluid balance.
• Vitamin B6: Involved in various metabolic processes.
• Vitamin C: From lemon juice, an antioxidant that supports the immune system.

Health Benefits:

• Plant-Based Protein: A good source of protein for vegetarians and vegans.
• High in Fiber: Promotes digestive health and satiety.
• Healthy Fats: Provides beneficial monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins and minerals.
• Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free: Suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Lower in Calories than Some Dips: A healthier alternative to creamy, mayonnaise-based dips.

Note: These nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes. For precise nutritional information, you can use a nutrition calculator app or website and input the exact ingredients you use.

Preparation Time

This white bean hummus is incredibly quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a last-minute snack, appetizer, or meal addition.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes (This includes draining and rinsing the beans, mincing the garlic, and juicing the lemon.)
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (No cooking required!)
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Breakdown:

• Bean Preparation: 2 minutes (Draining and rinsing beans)
• Ingredient Prep: 5 minutes (Minced garlic, lemon juice, gathering other ingredients)
• Blending Time: 3 minutes (Blending in food processor or blender)

Make-Ahead Tips:

• White bean hummus can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. In fact, the flavors often meld together even better after sitting in the fridge for a while.
• Prepare the hummus up to 2-3 days in advance for parties or meal prep.
• Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Before serving, you may need to add a tablespoon or two of water and stir to refresh the consistency, as it can thicken slightly in the fridge.
• Garnish just before serving for the best presentation.

This quick preparation time, combined with its delicious flavor and nutritional benefits, makes white bean hummus an ideal choice for busy weeknights, impromptu gatherings, or anyone looking for a healthy and satisfying snack or meal component without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve

White bean hummus is incredibly versatile and can be served in countless ways. Its creamy texture and mild, slightly nutty flavor make it a perfect accompaniment to a wide variety of dishes and cuisines. Here are some delicious ways to serve white bean hummus:

• With Pita Bread and Pita Chips:
  • Warm pita bread, cut into triangles, is a classic pairing for hummus. The soft, slightly chewy texture of pita bread complements the creamy hummus beautifully.
  • Serve with crispy pita chips for a satisfying crunch. You can find store-bought pita chips or make your own by baking or frying pita bread.
• With Fresh Vegetables:
  • Offer a platter of colorful, fresh vegetables for dipping. This is a healthy and refreshing way to enjoy hummus.
  • Excellent vegetable options include:
    • Carrot sticks
    • Celery sticks
    • Cucumber slices
    • Bell pepper strips (red, yellow, orange, green)
    • Cherry tomatoes
    • Radishes
    • Broccoli florets
    • Cauliflower florets
    • Snap peas
    • Asparagus spears (lightly blanched)
• As a Spread for Sandwiches and Wraps:
  • Use white bean hummus as a healthy and flavorful spread instead of mayonnaise or other condiments in sandwiches and wraps.
  • It adds moisture, creaminess, and a boost of protein and fiber.
  • Pair it with vegetables, grilled chicken, falafel, or roasted vegetables in sandwiches and wraps.
• With Crackers and Breadsticks:
  • Serve hummus with a variety of crackers, from simple whole wheat crackers to more flavorful seeded or herb crackers.
  • Breadsticks, both soft and crunchy, also pair well with hummus.
• As Part of a Mezze Platter:
  • Include white bean hummus as a key component of a Middle Eastern or Mediterranean mezze platter.
  • Arrange it alongside other dips like baba ghanoush or tzatziki, olives, feta cheese, dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), falafel, and grilled halloumi.
• With Grilled or Roasted Meats and Vegetables:
  • Serve a dollop of white bean hummus alongside grilled chicken, fish, lamb, or beef. It adds a creamy, flavorful element to the main course.
  • It’s also delicious with roasted vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions.
• As a Topping for Salads and Grain Bowls:
  • Add a spoonful of hummus to salads or grain bowls for extra creaminess, flavor, and protein.
  • It works particularly well in Mediterranean-style salads or bowls with ingredients like quinoa, couscous, chickpeas, olives, and feta cheese.
• As a Base for Flatbreads and Pizzas:
  • Spread a thin layer of white bean hummus on flatbreads or pizza dough instead of tomato sauce for a unique and flavorful base.
  • Top with vegetables, cheese, and herbs and bake.
• As a Dip for Falafel or Veggie Burgers:
  • Serve hummus as a dipping sauce for falafel balls or veggie burgers. Its creamy texture and mild flavor complement the savory flavors of falafel and veggie burgers perfectly.
• As a Snack on its Own:
  • Sometimes, the simplest way is the best. Enjoy a bowl of white bean hummus with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika as a healthy and satisfying snack on its own.

No matter how you choose to serve it, white bean hummus is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Its versatility and delicious flavor make it a welcome addition to any meal or snack.

Additional Tips

To ensure your white bean hummus is absolutely perfect every time, here are five helpful tips:

1. Peel the Bean Skins for Extra Creaminess (Optional but Recommended): For the absolute smoothest, most velvety hummus, take the extra step of removing the skins from the cannellini beans. While it’s a bit time-consuming, it makes a noticeable difference in the texture. To do this, after rinsing and draining the beans, gently rub them between your fingers or in a clean kitchen towel. The skins will slip off. This is especially beneficial if you don’t have a high-powered blender or food processor.
2. Use High-Quality Tahini: Tahini is a key ingredient that significantly impacts the flavor of hummus. Opt for high-quality tahini that is smooth, pourable, and has a rich, nutty aroma. Avoid tahini that is overly thick, dry, or has a bitter or metallic taste. Good quality tahini will contribute to a more authentic and delicious hummus flavor. Store tahini in the refrigerator after opening to maintain its freshness.
3. Don’t Skimp on the Lemon Juice and Garlic: Lemon juice and garlic are essential for balancing the richness of the beans and tahini and adding brightness and flavor. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor, and don’t be afraid to add a generous amount of garlic. Start with 2-3 cloves and adjust to your preference. If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, you can roast the garlic cloves before adding them to the hummus. Roasting mellows out the garlic and brings out its sweetness.
4. Adjust Consistency with Cold Water and Olive Oil: Achieving the perfect hummus consistency is crucial. Start with the recommended amount of cold water and add more, tablespoon by tablespoon, until you reach your desired creaminess. Cold water helps to emulsify the ingredients and creates a smoother texture. Similarly, you can adjust the richness and flavor by adding a bit more olive oil. Remember to add both water and olive oil gradually while the food processor or blender is running to ensure proper emulsification.
5. Taste and Season Generously: Always taste your hummus after blending and adjust the seasoning as needed. Salt, lemon juice, and garlic are the key flavor components. Don’t be afraid to add more salt, lemon juice, or garlic to enhance the flavor to your liking. You can also experiment with other seasonings, such as cumin, smoked paprika, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat. Tasting and adjusting seasoning is the final step to personalize your hummus and make it perfect for your taste.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making incredibly delicious and creamy white bean hummus that rivals any store-bought version.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about white bean hummus:

Q1: Can I use other types of white beans besides cannellini beans?

A: Yes, while cannellini beans (white kidney beans) are traditionally used and provide a creamy texture and mild flavor, you can use other types of white beans. Great Northern beans and navy beans are good substitutes. Great Northern beans are also mild and creamy, while navy beans have a slightly denser texture. The flavor profile might be subtly different, but they will still work well in hummus. Avoid using beans that are too firm or have a very strong flavor, as they might not result in the desired hummus texture and taste.

Q2: Can I make white bean hummus without tahini?

A: Tahini is a key ingredient in traditional hummus recipes, providing a characteristic nutty flavor and creamy texture. While you can technically make white bean dip without tahini, it won’t be authentic hummus. If you don’t have tahini or are allergic to sesame seeds, you can try substituting it with other nut or seed butters like almond butter or cashew butter for a slightly different flavor profile. Alternatively, you can omit tahini altogether, but the flavor and texture will be different, and you might need to adjust other ingredients like lemon juice and olive oil to balance the taste.

Q3: How long does white bean hummus last in the refrigerator?

A: White bean hummus will typically last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container. Ensure it is tightly sealed to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from the fridge. It’s always best to check for any signs of spoilage before consuming, such as an off smell or taste. If you notice any changes, discard it for safety.

Q4: Can I freeze white bean hummus?

A: Yes, you can freeze white bean hummus, although the texture might change slightly upon thawing. To freeze hummus, transfer it to an airtight, freezer-safe container, leaving a little headspace as it may expand when frozen. It’s best to freeze it in smaller portions for easier thawing. To thaw, transfer the frozen hummus to the refrigerator overnight or thaw at room temperature for a few hours. Once thawed, stir it well, and you may need to add a tablespoon or two of water and a drizzle of olive oil to restore its creamy texture, as it can sometimes become a bit grainy after freezing and thawing.

Q5: How can I make my white bean hummus more flavorful?

A: There are many ways to enhance the flavor of your white bean hummus. Besides adjusting the lemon juice, garlic, and salt, you can try adding other flavor boosters. Roasted red peppers, roasted garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, or Kalamata olives can be blended into the hummus for different variations. You can also experiment with spices like cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill can be added during blending or as a garnish. Toasted pine nuts or sesame seeds add nutty flavor and texture. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavor profile.

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